Former Chief Minister Harish Rawat has made headlines by insisting that a Supreme Court judge should monitor the investigation into Ankita Bhandari’s shocking murder. The young woman’s death at a luxury resort in Uttarakhand’s Pauri Garhwal district exposed deep cracks in the state’s law enforcement machinery.
Speaking to reporters, Rawat lambasted the current handling of the case, calling it ‘plagued by incompetence and bias.’ He highlighted how initial investigations faltered, with key witnesses turning hostile and forensic reports delayed indefinitely. ‘A Supreme Court judge’s watchful eye is the only way to ensure accountability,’ Rawat asserted.
Ankita, employed as a receptionist at the Vanantara resort, vanished on September 18, 2022. Days later, owner Pulkit Arya and staff members confessed to her murder, claiming a dispute over ‘personal relations’ led to the crime. Yet, as the probe dragged on, accusations flew that political connections were derailing justice. The High Court intervened, criticizing the police and appointing a fresh SIT.
Rawat didn’t mince words, accusing the ruling dispensation of protecting the accused. He recalled how Arya’s family ties to BJP leadership fueled public fury, leading to opposition walkouts and street demonstrations. ‘We’ve seen enough botched investigations. Ankita deserves better,’ he said.
The demand gains urgency as the trial inches forward in Dehradun court. Families of victims and activists echo Rawat’s sentiments, organizing candlelight vigils to keep the memory alive. With elections looming in Uttarakhand, this case could become a flashpoint. Rawat’s push for SC supervision underscores a broader battle for impartial justice in high-profile crimes.
